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What training and support are available for using new software?

Tailored training sessions are available to help your team effectively use new software. We also optimize software configurations for maximum productivity and offer ongoing troubleshooting and support [1][5].

Software

How can I get started with your services?

Getting started with our services is simple and tailored to meet your unique business needs. We offer several flexible options to help you begin, whether you’re a startup, an established business, or a nonprofit looking to optimize your operations. Below are the steps and options to get started:

Step 1: Choose the Right Service Plan

Step 2: Schedule an Introductory Appointment

Step 3: Complete the Onboarding Process

Step 4: Start Using Our Services

Book a call to Zoom with us and say hi! Get a free consultation.

https://calendly.com/launchindustries/introductory-meeting

Additional Contact Options

If you have any additional questions or need further assistance, feel free to contact us directly:

  • Email: hello@launchindustries.biz
  • Phone: +1 (206) 552-0380

Services

What information do you request from clients during onboarding to get fully set up and started?

During the onboarding process, we collect detailed information to ensure that we can fully set up and tailor our services to meet your business needs. Below is an overview of the information we request:

Basic Contact Information:

  • Your Name (First and Last)
  • Your Email Address
  • Your Phone Number
  • Your Title (e.g., Founder, Executive Director, etc.)

Billing Information:

  • Is there a different contact person for billing/invoicing purposes?
  • Billing Contact Name, Email, and Phone Number (if applicable)

Business Details:

  • Name of Legal Entity
  • Trade Name/DBA (if different from the legal entity name)
  • Legal Mailing Address (Street, City, State, Postal Code)
  • Street/Physical Address (if different from legal address)
  • Type of Legal Entity (e.g., Limited Liability Company, Nonprofit Corporation)
  • WA State UBI Number and Federal Tax ID (EIN)

Marketing and Visibility:

  • Marketing and Advertising Channels: Where do you currently market or advertise your business? (e.g., website, social media platforms, newsletters)
  • Social Media Handles and Links (e.g., Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn)
  • Permission for Promotion: Do we have your permission to welcome your business on our company’s LinkedIn and Instagram pages?
  • Logo for Promotion: Can we add your logo to our website’s “Client Page”? If yes, we request a high-resolution logo file.

Workforce Details:

  • Do you currently have contractors (1099)? If yes, how many?
  • Do you currently have W2 employees? If yes, how many full-time and part-time employees?
  • Are any owners also W2 employees?
  • Staffing Changes: Are there any staffing changes in progress?

Tools and Technology:

  • Software Tools Used: Details about the accounting software, payroll system, email hosting, CRM, POS system, website host, HRIS system, and other technology platforms currently in use.
  • Automations and Integrations: Are you using any automations between tools (e.g., native automations, third-party integrations like Zapier)?
  • Payment Methods: How do customers pay you (e.g., credit cards, online transactions)? Which tools do you use to process payments?
  • AI Tools: Any AI tools or systems with built-in AI features you currently use.
  • Tech Stack Improvements: Opportunities for improving your software tools if support and pricing were aligned with your needs.

Additional Information:

  • Special Endorsements on Business License: Any endorsements, such as Beer/Wine Specialty Shop.
  • Other Important Notes or Files: Any additional files or insights you would like to share with us to streamline onboarding.

This comprehensive information allows us to set up your account and services effectively, tailor solutions to your business, and establish a collaborative relationship for long-term success.

Services

What certifications can you assist with?

We assist with certifications such as OMWBE, organic, gluten-free, certified woman-owned business, and disadvantaged business enterprise certifications. We also clarify specific requirements for each certification, including ownership, operational, or product-related criteria.

Certifications
Services

How can Launch Industries help with business certifications?

We provide expert guidance to navigate complex certification processes, such as OMWBE (Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises), organic, gluten-free, certified woman-owned, or disadvantaged business enterprise certifications. Services include eligibility evaluation, documentation preparation, application guidance, and post-certification compliance and renewal assistance.

Certifications

What types of services does Launch Industries offer?

We offer a comprehensive suite of services to help businesses set up, optimize, manage their operations, and build capacity. Our goal is to support business owners, workers, and stakeholders in achieving long-term success. See our Services page for comprehensive information.

Services

How does Launch Industries tailor its services to my business needs?

We provide high-touch, one-on-one experiences to meet clients where they are. This personalized approach helps cultivate the growth of knowledge, skills, and capabilities.

Services

What bookkeeping services do you provide?

Our Managed Bookkeeping Services include transaction categorization, bank and credit card reconciliation, accounts payable and receivable management, financial forecasting, and monthly financial reviews. These services are designed to help businesses maintain accurate and well-organized financial records.

Bookkeeping
Services
Finance

What is Transaction Categorization, and why is it important?

Transaction Categorization is the process of accurately assigning each financial transaction to a specific category (e.g., income, expenses, assets) based on your business's chart of accounts. This practice provides you with a clear, organized view of your income and expenses, which is essential for maintaining accurate financial records and making informed business decisions.

Why Does This Matter for New Business Owners?

  1. Improves Financial Clarity:
    By categorizing transactions, you gain a clear overview of your cash flow. This helps you monitor how money moves in and out of your business, allowing you to identify trends, control expenses, and plan for growth effectively.
  2. Enables Better Decision-Making:
    Organized financial data enables you to generate accurate reports, such as profit and loss statements and cash flow summaries. These insights help you make informed, strategic decisions about your business operations.
  3. Streamlines Tax Preparation:
    Properly categorized transactions allow you to easily identify deductible expenses, ensuring you claim all applicable tax benefits. Additionally, this practice reduces the time and effort required to gather supporting documentation during tax season, making the process smoother and less stressful.
  4. Leverages Historical Data:
    Tools like QuickBooks Online provide features such as "Categorization History," which lists how previous transactions with the same vendor or customer were categorized over the past 12 months. This helps maintain consistency in your financial records.

How It Helps at Tax Time

When your transactions are accurately categorized:

  • Generating tax reports becomes faster and more reliable.
  • You minimize errors and reduce the risk of missing deadlines or paying penalties.
  • Working with your CPA or tax preparer becomes more efficient as they can directly access well-organized financial data

For example, QuickBooks Online uses your categorized transactions to summarize income and expenses in your financial statements. This ensures that your tax filings are accurate and complete, providing peace of mind at tax time.

Conclusion

For new business owners, Transaction Categorization is not just a bookkeeping task—it’s a crucial foundation for understanding your finances, maximizing tax benefits, and fostering long-term business success. By keeping your financial data organized and accurate, you’ll be better equipped to handle tax preparation and make strategic decisions to grow your business

Bookkeeping

What is Sliding Scale Pricing, and who is eligible?

Sliding Scale Pricing is available for pre-revenue startups and early-stage entrepreneurs with financial needs. Eligible clients can request a 20% discount for their first six months of services under Pay-As-You-Go, Hourly, Flex Plans, and Managed Service Plans. However, this discount does not apply to one-time services, technical assistance pools, or project-based pricing.

Pricing
Services

Who do I contact if I have questions about the ABC Program?

If you have questions or need assistance, you can contact our team member, Megan Lemieux by clicking Book Now or emailing megan@launchindustries.biz. You can also visit the City of Seattle's ABC Program website for more information. The website also provides detailed consultant profiles and resources to help you get started if you want to work with some of the other consultants.

ABC Program

How can I see what other businesses offer ABC Program services?

ABC Program

Who on the Launch team offers services in the ABC Program?

At this time, the following Launch Team members are approved for offering ABC Program Services:

ABC Program

Can Chambers or Associations promote the ABC Program to their members?

Yes! The ABC Program works with community organizations, including chambers of commerce, business associations, libraries, and Business Improvement Areas (BIAs), to promote the program. If your organization is interested in partnering, schedule a call to discuss collaboration, or contact the ABC Program Manager at the City of Seattle, Robyn Duckett, at robyn.duckett@seattle.gov.

ABC Program

Are nonprofits eligible for ABC Program services?

Yes, nonprofits can participate in the ABC Program if they meet the eligibility criteria.

ABC Program

How long do I have to use up my free hours if I join the program?

Participants must use all 10 consulting hours per category within six months of starting services with a consultant. If the hours are not completed within this time frame, participants may need to reapply to the program.

ABC Program

I am located in Seattle but I don't have a City license yet. Can I join?

Businesses must have a Seattle business license to be eligible. However, if you’re just starting out, the program may connect you with a business development consultant to assist with obtaining your license as the first step.

ABC Program

What is the cost to participate in the ABC Program?

There is no cost to participate in the ABC Program. All consulting services are provided free of charge to eligible businesses and nonprofits. This program is funded by the JumpStart payroll tax.

ABC Program

How are consultants selected for the ABC Program?

Consultants are pre-approved professionals with expertise in areas like accounting, marketing, business lending, and business development. A full list of consultants and their contact information is available on the ABC Program website.

ABC Program

What if I don't complete all hours within 6 months?

If you don’t complete your hours within six months, you may need to reapply to the program. If you need additional hours beyond the allocated 10 hours per category, this may be considered on a case-by-case basis depending on program funding and availability.

ABC Program

Can I modify my subscription level after signing up for a Flex Plan?

Yes, you can modify your Flex Plan subscription level based on your business needs. Contact our support team for assistance in adjusting your plan.

Plans
Programs
Software

What makes the Flex Plan unique?

The Flex Plan is designed to offer unparalleled flexibility and on-demand access to a versatile business services team. It enables you to address your unique challenges, customize solutions, and drive measurable results, all with the convenience of a single subscription.

No items found.

What is the Flex Plan?

The Flex Plan is a subscription-based service designed to supercharge your business by providing access to a diverse range of subject-matter experts and consultants. With one contract, you can fulfill nearly all your business development and operational support needs.

No items found.

Do you provide notary services for real estate documents?

No, we do not offer notarization services for real estate documents. However, we do provide notary services (specifically in West Seattle) for a wide range of business and personal documents, including contracts, agreements, and affidavits.

No items found.

Can I receive services if my business doesn’t have a Seattle address on its license?

With the exception of a special government contract we work in called the ABC Program (which is only for companies in Seattle), you can hire Launch from anywhere in the world.

No items found.

What types of business structures do you assist with?

We assist a variety of business structures, including sole proprietorships, LLCs, partnerships, corporations, non-profit organizations, cooperatives, and more.

Bookkeeping
Plans
Services

Can Launch teach me how to use business software?

Depends on the software, but in most cases we can! We love sharing our knowledge and helping small business owners build their capacity to grow, learn, and self advocate. Please reach out to us so we can help!

Support
Software
Plans

What is the best way to get in touch with your team?

The best way to talk to us is through this link. You’ll see our Calendly scheduler and you can book a call with us directly!

No items found.

Can Launch provide legal advice?

We have one small business attorney contracted on our team.  Her services are often available to Flex Plan clients, but she does not participate in litigation and is more focused on business transactions and contracts.  Clients can talk with their Client Success Manager about how it works with our legal services as this is one of our premium categories.

Legal

Can I use Launch to run my business better?

You sure can! We’re here to support you and your business however makes sense for you. We have in-house expertise in areas like HR, payroll and benefits administration, financial forecasting, business planning and strategy, marketing, project management, and more.

Operations
Services

What if my business is a few years old already? Can Launch help me?

Even better!  We help entrepreneurs at any stage so long as they demonstrate a commitment to social change and building strong working relationships. We tend to focus on small businesses and organizations who have a team of people, however small, to ensure they have the support they need to reach their goals.

No items found.

Can Launch help me start my business?

Most definitely! If you come to us with your vision, we can help you lay the foundation. We’ve helped businesses get licensed and certified, create business plans and strategies, and get started on their business infrastructure. We’re here to help you at any stage of your business.

No items found.

Frequently Asked Questions

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

What training and support are available for using new software?

Tailored training sessions are available to help your team effectively use new software. We also optimize software configurations for maximum productivity and offer ongoing troubleshooting and support [1][5].

How can I get started with your services?

Getting started with our services is simple and tailored to meet your unique business needs. We offer several flexible options to help you begin, whether you’re a startup, an established business, or a nonprofit looking to optimize your operations. Below are the steps and options to get started:

Step 1: Choose the Right Service Plan

Step 2: Schedule an Introductory Appointment

Step 3: Complete the Onboarding Process

Step 4: Start Using Our Services

Book a call to Zoom with us and say hi! Get a free consultation.

https://calendly.com/launchindustries/introductory-meeting

Additional Contact Options

If you have any additional questions or need further assistance, feel free to contact us directly:

  • Email: hello@launchindustries.biz
  • Phone: +1 (206) 552-0380

What information do you request from clients during onboarding to get fully set up and started?

During the onboarding process, we collect detailed information to ensure that we can fully set up and tailor our services to meet your business needs. Below is an overview of the information we request:

Basic Contact Information:

  • Your Name (First and Last)
  • Your Email Address
  • Your Phone Number
  • Your Title (e.g., Founder, Executive Director, etc.)

Billing Information:

  • Is there a different contact person for billing/invoicing purposes?
  • Billing Contact Name, Email, and Phone Number (if applicable)

Business Details:

  • Name of Legal Entity
  • Trade Name/DBA (if different from the legal entity name)
  • Legal Mailing Address (Street, City, State, Postal Code)
  • Street/Physical Address (if different from legal address)
  • Type of Legal Entity (e.g., Limited Liability Company, Nonprofit Corporation)
  • WA State UBI Number and Federal Tax ID (EIN)

Marketing and Visibility:

  • Marketing and Advertising Channels: Where do you currently market or advertise your business? (e.g., website, social media platforms, newsletters)
  • Social Media Handles and Links (e.g., Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn)
  • Permission for Promotion: Do we have your permission to welcome your business on our company’s LinkedIn and Instagram pages?
  • Logo for Promotion: Can we add your logo to our website’s “Client Page”? If yes, we request a high-resolution logo file.

Workforce Details:

  • Do you currently have contractors (1099)? If yes, how many?
  • Do you currently have W2 employees? If yes, how many full-time and part-time employees?
  • Are any owners also W2 employees?
  • Staffing Changes: Are there any staffing changes in progress?

Tools and Technology:

  • Software Tools Used: Details about the accounting software, payroll system, email hosting, CRM, POS system, website host, HRIS system, and other technology platforms currently in use.
  • Automations and Integrations: Are you using any automations between tools (e.g., native automations, third-party integrations like Zapier)?
  • Payment Methods: How do customers pay you (e.g., credit cards, online transactions)? Which tools do you use to process payments?
  • AI Tools: Any AI tools or systems with built-in AI features you currently use.
  • Tech Stack Improvements: Opportunities for improving your software tools if support and pricing were aligned with your needs.

Additional Information:

  • Special Endorsements on Business License: Any endorsements, such as Beer/Wine Specialty Shop.
  • Other Important Notes or Files: Any additional files or insights you would like to share with us to streamline onboarding.

This comprehensive information allows us to set up your account and services effectively, tailor solutions to your business, and establish a collaborative relationship for long-term success.

What certifications can you assist with?

We assist with certifications such as OMWBE, organic, gluten-free, certified woman-owned business, and disadvantaged business enterprise certifications. We also clarify specific requirements for each certification, including ownership, operational, or product-related criteria.

How can Launch Industries help with business certifications?

We provide expert guidance to navigate complex certification processes, such as OMWBE (Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises), organic, gluten-free, certified woman-owned, or disadvantaged business enterprise certifications. Services include eligibility evaluation, documentation preparation, application guidance, and post-certification compliance and renewal assistance.

What types of services does Launch Industries offer?

We offer a comprehensive suite of services to help businesses set up, optimize, manage their operations, and build capacity. Our goal is to support business owners, workers, and stakeholders in achieving long-term success. See our Services page for comprehensive information.

How does Launch Industries tailor its services to my business needs?

We provide high-touch, one-on-one experiences to meet clients where they are. This personalized approach helps cultivate the growth of knowledge, skills, and capabilities.

What bookkeeping services do you provide?

Our Managed Bookkeeping Services include transaction categorization, bank and credit card reconciliation, accounts payable and receivable management, financial forecasting, and monthly financial reviews. These services are designed to help businesses maintain accurate and well-organized financial records.

What is Transaction Categorization, and why is it important?

Transaction Categorization is the process of accurately assigning each financial transaction to a specific category (e.g., income, expenses, assets) based on your business's chart of accounts. This practice provides you with a clear, organized view of your income and expenses, which is essential for maintaining accurate financial records and making informed business decisions.

Why Does This Matter for New Business Owners?

  1. Improves Financial Clarity:
    By categorizing transactions, you gain a clear overview of your cash flow. This helps you monitor how money moves in and out of your business, allowing you to identify trends, control expenses, and plan for growth effectively.
  2. Enables Better Decision-Making:
    Organized financial data enables you to generate accurate reports, such as profit and loss statements and cash flow summaries. These insights help you make informed, strategic decisions about your business operations.
  3. Streamlines Tax Preparation:
    Properly categorized transactions allow you to easily identify deductible expenses, ensuring you claim all applicable tax benefits. Additionally, this practice reduces the time and effort required to gather supporting documentation during tax season, making the process smoother and less stressful.
  4. Leverages Historical Data:
    Tools like QuickBooks Online provide features such as "Categorization History," which lists how previous transactions with the same vendor or customer were categorized over the past 12 months. This helps maintain consistency in your financial records.

How It Helps at Tax Time

When your transactions are accurately categorized:

  • Generating tax reports becomes faster and more reliable.
  • You minimize errors and reduce the risk of missing deadlines or paying penalties.
  • Working with your CPA or tax preparer becomes more efficient as they can directly access well-organized financial data

For example, QuickBooks Online uses your categorized transactions to summarize income and expenses in your financial statements. This ensures that your tax filings are accurate and complete, providing peace of mind at tax time.

Conclusion

For new business owners, Transaction Categorization is not just a bookkeeping task—it’s a crucial foundation for understanding your finances, maximizing tax benefits, and fostering long-term business success. By keeping your financial data organized and accurate, you’ll be better equipped to handle tax preparation and make strategic decisions to grow your business

What is Sliding Scale Pricing, and who is eligible?

Sliding Scale Pricing is available for pre-revenue startups and early-stage entrepreneurs with financial needs. Eligible clients can request a 20% discount for their first six months of services under Pay-As-You-Go, Hourly, Flex Plans, and Managed Service Plans. However, this discount does not apply to one-time services, technical assistance pools, or project-based pricing.

Who do I contact if I have questions about the ABC Program?

If you have questions or need assistance, you can contact our team member, Megan Lemieux by clicking Book Now or emailing megan@launchindustries.biz. You can also visit the City of Seattle's ABC Program website for more information. The website also provides detailed consultant profiles and resources to help you get started if you want to work with some of the other consultants.

How can I see what other businesses offer ABC Program services?

Who on the Launch team offers services in the ABC Program?

At this time, the following Launch Team members are approved for offering ABC Program Services:

Can Chambers or Associations promote the ABC Program to their members?

Yes! The ABC Program works with community organizations, including chambers of commerce, business associations, libraries, and Business Improvement Areas (BIAs), to promote the program. If your organization is interested in partnering, schedule a call to discuss collaboration, or contact the ABC Program Manager at the City of Seattle, Robyn Duckett, at robyn.duckett@seattle.gov.

Are nonprofits eligible for ABC Program services?

Yes, nonprofits can participate in the ABC Program if they meet the eligibility criteria.

How long do I have to use up my free hours if I join the program?

Participants must use all 10 consulting hours per category within six months of starting services with a consultant. If the hours are not completed within this time frame, participants may need to reapply to the program.

I am located in Seattle but I don't have a City license yet. Can I join?

Businesses must have a Seattle business license to be eligible. However, if you’re just starting out, the program may connect you with a business development consultant to assist with obtaining your license as the first step.

What is the cost to participate in the ABC Program?

There is no cost to participate in the ABC Program. All consulting services are provided free of charge to eligible businesses and nonprofits. This program is funded by the JumpStart payroll tax.

How are consultants selected for the ABC Program?

Consultants are pre-approved professionals with expertise in areas like accounting, marketing, business lending, and business development. A full list of consultants and their contact information is available on the ABC Program website.

What if I don't complete all hours within 6 months?

If you don’t complete your hours within six months, you may need to reapply to the program. If you need additional hours beyond the allocated 10 hours per category, this may be considered on a case-by-case basis depending on program funding and availability.

Can I modify my subscription level after signing up for a Flex Plan?

Yes, you can modify your Flex Plan subscription level based on your business needs. Contact our support team for assistance in adjusting your plan.

What makes the Flex Plan unique?

The Flex Plan is designed to offer unparalleled flexibility and on-demand access to a versatile business services team. It enables you to address your unique challenges, customize solutions, and drive measurable results, all with the convenience of a single subscription.

What is the Flex Plan?

The Flex Plan is a subscription-based service designed to supercharge your business by providing access to a diverse range of subject-matter experts and consultants. With one contract, you can fulfill nearly all your business development and operational support needs.

Do you provide notary services for real estate documents?

No, we do not offer notarization services for real estate documents. However, we do provide notary services (specifically in West Seattle) for a wide range of business and personal documents, including contracts, agreements, and affidavits.

Can I receive services if my business doesn’t have a Seattle address on its license?

With the exception of a special government contract we work in called the ABC Program (which is only for companies in Seattle), you can hire Launch from anywhere in the world.

What types of business structures do you assist with?

We assist a variety of business structures, including sole proprietorships, LLCs, partnerships, corporations, non-profit organizations, cooperatives, and more.

Can Launch teach me how to use business software?

Depends on the software, but in most cases we can! We love sharing our knowledge and helping small business owners build their capacity to grow, learn, and self advocate. Please reach out to us so we can help!

What is the best way to get in touch with your team?

The best way to talk to us is through this link. You’ll see our Calendly scheduler and you can book a call with us directly!

Can Launch provide legal advice?

We have one small business attorney contracted on our team.  Her services are often available to Flex Plan clients, but she does not participate in litigation and is more focused on business transactions and contracts.  Clients can talk with their Client Success Manager about how it works with our legal services as this is one of our premium categories.

Can I use Launch to run my business better?

You sure can! We’re here to support you and your business however makes sense for you. We have in-house expertise in areas like HR, payroll and benefits administration, financial forecasting, business planning and strategy, marketing, project management, and more.

What if my business is a few years old already? Can Launch help me?

Even better!  We help entrepreneurs at any stage so long as they demonstrate a commitment to social change and building strong working relationships. We tend to focus on small businesses and organizations who have a team of people, however small, to ensure they have the support they need to reach their goals.

Can Launch help me start my business?

Most definitely! If you come to us with your vision, we can help you lay the foundation. We’ve helped businesses get licensed and certified, create business plans and strategies, and get started on their business infrastructure. We’re here to help you at any stage of your business.